Explosive Disposal Unit

The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office is a member of the Metro Explosive Disposal Unit (MEDU) a team of specially trained law enforcement officers from several local agencies responsible for region-wide response to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive incidents. 

Typical missions include suspected explosive device investigations, post-blast investigations, bomb sweeps, and disposal of explosives, fireworks, dangerous chemicals, and ammunition.

All team members are highly trained in the recognition, handling, and disposal of ordinance, explosive materials, and devices. Unit members are required to successfully complete a six-week explosive-ordinance training course at the FBI’s Hazardous Devices School located in Huntsville, Alabama. 

The FBI’s Redstone Arsenal training facility is home to a sprawling 455-acre campus complete with classrooms, explosive ranges, and mock villages that include a train station, apartment complexes, a movie theater, and a strip mall. New bomb technicians spend six weeks learning about electricity, fuses, and improvised explosives. 

After the successful completion of the FBI’s explosive-ordinance training course, they are required to maintain proficiency through regional team training. Team members must also attend a two-week explosive-ordinance refresher course every three years at Redstone Arsenal.

This assignment is a collateral duty for Sheriff’s Office members who are part of this team.